Fracturing Fear

The Marcellus Shale has the potential to supply a large portion of domestic natural gas needs for many years; it also has the misfortune of lying across some of the most historic and picturesque farmland in the Northeast. Federal, state, and local governments are racing to establish exploration and production protocols that walk the fine line between public concern and economic benefit. The main concern is impact on water supplies, although effects on surface environments, including noise, drilling wastes and pipeline routes add to the discussion. Involving the public in an informed and calm debate must become an E&P industry priority. Do the warnings have an element of truth? Can the industry alleviate these fears?

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